North Carolina Respiratory Therapist License
North Carolina Respiratory Care Board
Total Fee
$138
Processing Time
4 to 6 Weeks
Fingerprints
Required
IdentoGO / SBI
Temp License
Not available
See board
What You'll Need
- Official Transcripts — Must be sent directly from the educational institution to the Board.
- NBRC Credential Verification — Official verification of RRT status from the NBRC. Request Verification
- Fingerprint Card — Required for the criminal history record check; instructions provided upon application.
- BLS/CPR Card — Copy of current certification from AHA, Red Cross, or ASHI.
- Passport-style Photo — A 2x2 photograph may be required for the application file.
How to Apply
-
Create RCP Gateway Account ▾Establish a licensure account via the RCP Gateway portal on the Board's homepage to begin the application process.
RCP Gateway -
Submit Online Application and Fees ▾Complete the online application form and pay the total initial fees of $213 ($50 application fee, $125 initial license fee, and $38 background check fee).
Apply for Licensure -
Request Official Transcripts ▾Have your official transcripts sent directly from your CoARC-accredited respiratory care program to the Board office.
-
Verify NBRC Credentials ▾Provide verification of your Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) credential from the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC).
NBRC Verification -
Complete Background Check ▾Follow the instructions provided in the portal to complete the fingerprinting process. North Carolina residents use LiveScan; out-of-state applicants must mail paper fingerprint cards.
Background Check Info -
Submit CPR/BLS Certification ▾Upload or mail a copy of your current Basic Life Support (BLS) or CPR certification from an approved provider like the AHA or Red Cross.
Total Fee
$138
Processing Time
4 to 6 Weeks
Fingerprints
Required
Temp License
Not available
Transfer License
Requirements ▾
Respiratory Therapists licensed in another state can often apply via endorsement by providing license verification and current certification.
Steps
-
Apply via Reciprocity ▾Log into the RCP Gateway and select the reciprocity application path.
RCP Gateway -
License Verification ▾Provide official verification of all current and past respiratory care licenses held in other jurisdictions.
-
NBRC Verification ▾Ensure your RRT credentials are verified and sent to the North Carolina Board.
NBRC Portal -
Criminal Background Check ▾Complete the required fingerprinting process as directed by the Board.
Total Fee
$50
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Compact
No
Board
North Carolina Respiratory Care Board
Keeping Your License Active
North Carolina Respiratory Therapist licenses renew Every 2 years. Contact the North Carolina Respiratory Care Board for continuing education requirements and renewal deadlines.
Renew on the board siteFees
| Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| Application | $100 |
| Endorsement application | $100 |
| Fingerprint check | $38.00 |
| Temporary permit | See board |
| Renewal | 50.0 |
Slow Downs
Background Check Processing
▾
The SBI background check can take 2-8 weeks. Delays often occur if fingerprints are of poor quality and rejected.
Missing Transcripts
▾
Applications are not processed until official transcripts are received directly from the school.
Incomplete NBRC Verification
▾
Failure to request official verification from the NBRC can stall the final approval of the license.
Questions
How much does it cost to get a license in North Carolina?
▾
The total initial cost is $213, which includes a $50 application fee, a $125 initial active license fee, and a $38 background check fee.
How many continuing education hours are required for renewal?
▾
Licensees must complete 12 hours of continuing education annually. At least 6 of these hours must be 'live' or traditional style (direct interaction).
Does North Carolina issue physical wallet cards?
▾
No, the Board transitioned to a digital system in 2018. Licensees and employers must use the 'License Look-up' feature on the Board's website for verification.
How long is the license valid?
▾
Licenses are valid for one year and must be renewed annually by the last day of the month in which the license was initially granted.
Can I work while my application is pending?
▾
No, you must have an active license or a provisional/temporary license issued by the Board before practicing respiratory care in North Carolina.